This article will introduce the top 15 things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, you can explore the best sights and events in the liveliest city in Vietnam. Read on to see everything this city has to offer, regardless of how experienced you are as a traveler.
Notre Dame Cathedral in Saigon
- Address: No.1 Cong xa Paris St, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Make sure to visit the renowned Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral if you’re seeking for things to do in Ho Chi Minh City. It is a monument to the rich history of the city and one of the top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City.
French colonists constructed the cathedral in the late 1800s. Visible from several locations throughout the city, the cathedral is a remarkable sight, owing to its unique red-brick facade and two imposing bell towers.
Guests may admire the elaborate aspects of the cathedral’s architecture, such as the elaborate carvings and spectacular stained-glass windows. It’s a wonderful spot to unwind and enjoy the calm ambiance because it’s encircled by a beautiful garden.
Independence Palace
- Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Visiting the Independence Palace should definitely be on your list of things to do in Ho Chi Minh City if you have an interest in history. It is a historical site in Ho Chi Minh City that is also referred to as the Reunification Palace and has an important place in the history of the nation.
When it was first constructed in the 1960s, it was South Vietnam’s presidential palace. When a North Vietnamese tank broke through the palace’s gates in 1975, it was a historic moment that marked the end of the war.
The palace’s several chambers, which still include the president’s office, the reception hall, and the war room, are open for exploration by guests today. As a museum, the palace has been maintained and provides an insight into the 20th-century lives of Vietnam’s political leaders.
Saigon Central Post Office
- Address: No 2, Cong Xa Paris Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
One of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City is to visit the Sai Gon Central Post Office if you’re seeking for a gorgeous and historic monument. This opulent structure has an exquisite interior and is one of the most identifiable structures in the city due to its outstanding exterior.
Inside, the big hall is a sight to behold, with exquisite mosaics and hand-painted maps of Vietnam. Postcards and stamps are available for purchase in souvenir shops, making it the ideal location for sending letters to loved ones back home.
Bitexco Financial Tower
- Address: 02 Hai Trieu Street, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Bitexco Financial Tower is Ho Chi Minh City’s most famous skyscraper and the country’s fourth highest building. The lotus shape served as the model for the 262-meter building. Take in a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city by visiting the observation deck located on the 49th level.
Besides, this is one of the most striking contemporary sights in Ho Chi Minh City. Until the Keangnam Hanoi Landmark Tower was constructed in 2011, standing at a height of more than 260 meters, it was the highest structure in Vietnam. The structure serves as the city’s commercial center and is home to numerous offices, retail establishments, and entertainment venues. CNN has listed it as one of the most recognizable towers in the entire globe.
Cu Chi Tunnels
- Address: Phu Hiep, Cu Chi, Ho Chi Minh City
The Cu Chi Tunnels were part of a vast underground network that exploited as a refuge throughout the war. Built entirely by hand using basic tools, the vast 30 kilometer maze of tunnels contained entire civilizations.
The tunnels were first utilized during French colonial authority, but later on, during the Vietnam War against the United States, they were enlarged and saw increased use
Ho Chi Minh City Opera House
- Address: 07 Lam Son Construction Site, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
The Ho Chi Minh Opera House, which is centrally located, should not be missed by visitors. The Opera House has served a variety of functions since it was built in the early 20th century, including political gatherings, musical performances, and even the reading of the Declaration of Independence.
These days, the Opera House presents a variety of cultural events, including as ballet, opera, and traditional Vietnamese music and dance. Restored multiple times to its former splendor, it currently stands as one of the city’s most recognizable structures. Take a tour, take in the breathtaking architecture, or see a play for a once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience.
Saigon War Remnants Museum
- Address: 28 Vo Van Tan, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
Saigon War Remnants Museum is one of the top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City if you’re a history enthusiast or just want to learn more about the Second Indochina War. Views of the destruction brought about by the fighting are available in the museum through an assortment of pictures, guns, and relics.
The museum provides an insightful and poignant look at Vietnam’s past. When visiting the Saigon War Remnant Museum, you should not pass up this enlightening and humble experience when visiting Ho Chi Minh City.
Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts
- Address: No. 97A, Pho Duc Chinh Street, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
The Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts is a structure that dates back to the French colonial era and contains a vast collection of artworks by both Vietnamese and foreign artists. A wide variety of art forms, such as sculptures, pottery, and classic and contemporary pieces, are on display for tourists to admire.
The structure itself is a work of art, showcasing an exquisite fusion of Vietnamese and French architectural elements. Discover something new every time you visit this cultural treasure located in the center of Ho Chi Minh City, thanks to its diverse exhibitions.
Ho Chi Minh City Museum of History
- Address: 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
One of the most things to do in Ho Chi Minh City is to explore the History Museum. As you peruse the exhibits and artifacts on display, you can fully immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the city.
This museum offers a wealth of interesting insights into the history of the city, ranging from antiquated ceramics to artifacts from the conflict. Through learning about Ho Chi Minh City’s historical development, visitors can develop a greater understanding of this dynamic metropolis.
Jade Emperor Pagoda
- Address: 73 Mai Thi Luu Street, Dakao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
The Jade Emperor Pagoda is a beautiful Taoist shrine in Ho Chi Minh City. Constructed in 1909 by a community of migrant Cantonese, Chua Ngoc Hoang ( Jade Emperor Pagoda), known as the “King of Heaven,” is the main deity here, overseeing the passage of souls into the afterlife. Known by another name, the Tortoise Pagoda is a 100-year-old structure adorned with figures from mythology.
The walls of the temple, which are sometimes obscured by incense smoke, are richly etched with images of the hideous doom that awaits sinners.
Giac Lam Pagoda
- Address: 565 Lac Long Quan Street, Ward 10, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City.
Gia Lam Pagoda is a place of worship located in Ho Chi Minh City’s Phu Tho Hoa neighborhood. The 1744-founded temple is situated in a verdant garden with a towering bodhi tree casting a shadow over a buddha statue. The main temple has an enormous statue of Amitabha Buddha and is encircled by priceless wood pillars covered with gold inscriptions.
The oldest and most immaculate Buddhist pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City is the Giac Lam Pagoda. “Feel the Woods Temple” is how the Chinese characters for the temple’s name translate; it is also referred to locally as Cam Son and Can Dien Pagoda. The Giac Lam Pagoda is a stunning and revered location that draws pilgrims of many faiths in addition to Buddhists because of its entrancing beauty and uplifting energy. Along with Buddhism, this temple also features certain aspects of Taoism and Confucianism, as is typical of many Vietnamese temples. This temple is exquisitely built, and the surrounding gardens further increase the pagoda’s splendor.
Ben Thanh market
- Address: Le Loi Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Visits to Ben Thanh Market are among the most distinctive cultural experiences in Ho Chi Minh City, which offers a plethora of engaging activities. There are plenty of food options and shopping options in this lively marketplace. The market becomes a vibrant, bustling night market in the evening where you may eat, drink, and shop until the wee hours of the morning.
Ben Thanh Market is a foodie’s paradise. There are many different street food sellers, small eateries, and cafes in the market that provide a variety of Vietnamese dishes. Here, you may sample a variety of regional specialties like banh mi, pho, and bun bo hue. Every taste and price range is catered to.
Once your hunger has been sated, proceed to the market’s shopping sector, which is a true haven for shoppers. The market sells a variety of products, including jewelry, electronics, apparel, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Here, negotiating is essential, so be ready to work for a favorable outcome.
Ho Thi Ky Market
- Address: 52 Ho Thi Ky, Ward 1, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City offers a plethora of activities, one of which is perusing Ho Thi Ky Market. Ho Thi Ky Market, also referred to as the flower market in Ho Chi Minh City, offers an extensive assortment of flowers, ranging from locally grown Vietnamese flowers to imported varieties that are visually stunning.
Because this market is a gathering place for wholesalers, you might find sellers offering large quantities of flowers at competitive pricing. Along with home goods like linens, curtains, and kitchenware, the market also sells a variety of apparel and accessories. It’s a great place to purchase for flowers and gifts because of its wide assortment of goods at reasonable pricing.
Relax on the Nguyen Hue street
Nguyen Hue Street is the place to go if you want to experience Ho Chi Minh City’s nightlife. Located in the center of District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City, this is a well-liked location. The street comes alive with a variety of activity at night thanks to the vibrant lighting.
Among the top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City is to see street performers on Nguyen Hue Street. Here, you can see a wide range of gifted artists, including singers, dancers, and acrobats. The area is livened up by the acts, which are free to attend.
Explore Bui Vien Street
Ho Chi Minh City’s busy Bui Vien Street is well-known for its exciting nightlife and party atmosphere. Bui Vien Street comes alive at night with a flurry of activity, lights, and music. Bars, eateries, and street food sellers line the roadway.
Bar hopping is one of the most well-liked nighttime pastimes on Bui Vien Street. There are several bars in this area, each with a unique atmosphere and selection of drinks. There is something for everyone, including rooftop bars, live music venues, and sports pubs.
There are so many amazing things to do in Ho Chi Minh City that you will definitely want to return. This dynamic city has plenty to offer everyone, so take advantage of the opportunity to see them all! Make travel plans to Vietnam right away and make sure to do everything on this top 15 list of things to do in Ho Chi Minh City.
